Summer

Oh how I love summer! The beach…the sun…the Halo-halo (a Filipino refreshment with crushed ice, mixed fruits, beans, milk, and topped with Leche Flan. Yummy!) …and ice cold Pepsi…and of course, outings and long week-end vacation. And speaking of outing, we just had our family outing last Thursday.

During this time of the month, its hard to find a summer getaway that is budget and commuter friendly. We have kids who'll go with us and a long drive is quite tiring for them so the place should be accessible. We cut down our list to places near Marikina and stop wandering far from Metro Manila. Auspiciously, we found a haven in the heart of Antipolo, Loreland Farm and Resort .

It was such a nice place if you don't want to go far. The 30-minute trip (from Marikina City) is also quite enjoying as you can see an overlooking site of the metropolis plus the cool breeze that caresses the face (you should open your car windows to feel this :D). And the place.....breathtaking! We went there as early as 6:30am since we don't have any reservation (the resort do not have reservation policy as it was on a first-come-first-serve basis). When we arrived, I just noticed that the cashier's and entrance areas are already crowded. I supposed we're not the only group who had the idea of going sooo early! :D

It was Holy Thursday and yet the resort was packed with people – young and old - in swimwear! As far I know, Catholics usually celebrate Holy Week with retreats and self-sanctification but maybe religious practices changes as time goes…or are they Catholics? Hmmm…I’m not sure.

Anyway, I didn't know that Loreland is quite big. It has gazebos, function halls, rest houses, treehouse, playground, volley ball and table tennis courts, wooden cottages, sauna and jacuzzi, and a number of pools -- eight to be exact. They can accomodate even a large function such as weddings. The atmosphere is truly relaxing and refreshing. Green trees are present everywhere. The whole environment pleases the eyes.

Our stay lasted until 5pm. Enough to get our fill of the cool water, sunburns and aching muscles! :D. But then, I could say that everyone enjoyed it albeit the rain :D (it actually rained during the afternoon!). And I personally enjoyed it compare to our trip last year. Last year was boring and I was even frustratred. I did not have a summeriffic fun since I am still carrying Jaden in my tummy. The uneasiness and heaviness and the heat of the season makes everything uncomfortable for me. But now, time sure flies…she enjoyed the summer with us this year! :D.

We packed up, and prepared ourselves to go. But we will never forget this new found highland haven..we will surely come back.